Muhammad Ali Health, Condition Latest News Update: Discharged From Hospital After Battling Infection

By Max Bonto, Christian Post Contributor Friday, January 09, 2015

Boxing legend Muhammad Ali was taken home on Tuesday evening following his hospital stint for a severe urinary tract infection.

Ali was initially taken to the hospital on Dec. 20 due to suspicions of pneumonia, though it was later cleared up to be due to a UTI. Bob Gunnell, the spokesperson for the three-time world heavyweight champion and his family, confirmed to news outlets that Ali will be home with family and friends in time for Jan. 17, his 73rd birthday.

"He's in great spirits and enjoying being back home. He's back in his daily routine," Gunnell said. "The Ali family greatly appreciates the outpouring of support and continued well wishes. They also want to thank the team of doctors and nurses for their exceptional care."

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Gunnell did not say in which hospital Ali was taken in, nor did he state which home he was being taken to as Ali and his wife Lonnie have homes in Louisville; Berrien Springs, Michigan and Valley, Arizona,

Ali, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1984, did not often make public appearances since his retirement. However, he last appeared in public in September during a ceremony in honor of the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards in his hometown in Louisville.

During the ceremony, Ali did not make a speech or talked to most people, but he did pose alongside those who were awarded, such as former NFL star Jim Brown. Brown even reportedly told Ali during the photo session, "You're the greatest of all time."

Ali, who retired in 1982, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005 from then-President George W. Bush. He remains devoted to his social causes and humanitarian missions. The Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville was put up in dedication to his cause and as a tribute to his illustrious boxing career.